Hometown: Chicago Illinois
Major: Social Work
Future Plans: Pursue a career in social work

Travis Gipson chose the University of Illinois Springfield because of the close proximity to home. UIS also offered a variety of inclusive communities to cater to different identities and cultures. Gipson is a student leader for the Diversity Center, president of the Black Student Union and vice president of the Upsilon Xi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He also is a member of the Men of Color Initiative, Student Activities Committee, Necessary Steps Mentoring Program and Black Male Collegiate Society. Gipson enjoys UIS because of the leadership opportunities we have to offer. “It gives students leadership experience before they graduate and enter the real world," he said. Following graduation, he plans to pursue a career in social work.  

Leadership is lived at UIS. Every Day.